Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua has expressed confidence that the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) is making meaningful strides since its revival last year. As a former member of the council prior to its dissolution, Ratu Suliano has observed a marked improvement in how provincial representatives engage in discussions.
He noted that the current council members are more vocal, informed, and capable of posing critical questions compared to the previous leadership. “Upon returning to the meeting yesterday, I found that while much remains the same, the approach to discussions has notably changed,” he remarked.
Ratu Suliano pointed out that historically, some chiefs were hesitant to speak up during decision-making processes out of respect for the high chiefs. He emphasized that, unlike before, today’s representatives have stronger educational backgrounds and a deeper understanding of the topics being discussed.
He underlined that the council’s mission during the recent meeting focused on addressing socio-economic challenges and strategizing ways to overcome them, highlighting the review of iTaukei legislation as evidence of the GCC’s progress.
He conveyed a sense of optimism regarding the advancement of the iTaukei people over the last 16 years, emphasizing that ongoing efforts will lead to positive changes. “This is a work in progress, and I hope this leadership will facilitate advancements for the iTaukei people,” he stated.
This shift towards open dialogue and proactive engagement reflects a hopeful trend for the future of the Great Council of Chiefs and its representation of the iTaukei people. The ongoing commitment to addressing socio-economic issues can foster greater unity and empowerment within the community.
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